Preparing an Apartment for Sale: What Really Pays Off

Before selling, investments are usually either too small or misplaced. The difference between these two scenarios is measured in weeks on the market and the percentage of the achieved price.

What they have in common is that they are cheap, fast, and change the first impression — and the first impression of an ad is formed in a matter of seconds.

• Thorough cleaning, including windows, grout, and joinery.
• A fresh coat of white paint on the walls.
• Removing excess furniture and personal items.
• Replacing worn-out handles, switches, and sockets.
• Brighter and warmer lighting fixtures in darker rooms.
• Repairing everything that visibly leaks, squeaks, or doesn't close.

Large and expensive adaptations rarely suit the buyer's taste, and the buyer usually factors in their own renovation anyway.

• Complete kitchen replacement just before advertising.
• Demolishing walls and changing the layout.
• Expensive floor coverings throughout the apartment.
• A distinct, personal style that narrows the pool of interested buyers.

The exception is a condition that turns off a buyer at first sight — a dilapidated bathroom or faulty installations. In such cases, the investment is worth it, but in a neutral design.

Photos decide whether a viewing will even take place. Shoot during the day, with lights on and shutters up, from clean work surfaces and without personal items in the frame.

For the tour itself, air out the space, turn on heating or cooling to a comfortable temperature, and prepare a folder with documentation. A buyer who sees the title deed and energy certificate on the spot negotiates more calmly.